Lucia Angela Francesca Graeff

Lucia Angela Francesca Graeff, 86, passed away in Virginia Beach, Virginia on March 7, 2026. Born in Derry, Northern Ireland to Victor and Mary Fiorentini, she received her education there and worked in her parents’ shop, Fiorentini’s, on the Strand. In 1959 she met her husband, Gene, while he was stationed at the U.S. Naval base in Derry. They married at St. Eugene’s Cathedral on August 25, 1960, and in 1962 Lucia moved to the United States with Gene and their young son, Eugene.

She carried a deep and enduring love for Ireland throughout her life, often speaking of her home and family in Derry and Shrove. One of her favorite places was the Big White Bay in Shrove, with its lighthouse, beach, and cliffs. She treasured her visits home, especially those shared with her husband, children, and grandchildren. Lucia found joy in reading and travel, and she expressed her artistic talent through embroidery, knitting, macrame, ceramics, and art. She also cherished her monthly luncheons with Irish friends and was a former member of the Irish American Society of Tidewater.

Lucia was predeceased by her parents, Victor and Mary Fiorentini, and her sisters Maria, Paddy, and Pat. She is survived by her husband Gene; her son Eugene and daughter-in-law Patti; her daughter Barbara and son-in-law Kevin; her grandchildren Caitlyn, Ryan, and La’Miya; her sisters Nora, Bi and husband Peter, Eva, and Santina and husband Cathal; her brother Giovanni; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends.